Last Updated: 13/01/2026
How Often Should You Change Cat Litter? A Vet's Guide to Litter Tray Hygiene
Ever wondered if you're cleaning the litter tray enough? From clumping vs. non-clumping variables to the "one tray per cat plus one" rule, we break down exactly how often to spot clean and deep wash to prevent odours and keep your cat healthy.
Author: Dr Samantha Wycherley BVSc
Reading Time: 7 minutes - short read
While cats are famously fastidious about their grooming, they are just as picky about where they do their "business." A smelly or full litter tray is more than just a household nuisance; it can lead to stressed felines and messy accidents on your carpet.
Whether you are a new kitten parent or a seasoned cat lover, mastering the art of the litter change is essential for a harmonious home. This guide explores the golden rules of litter maintenance, helping you navigate different litter types and household needs so your cat’s toilet stays as pristine as they are.
How often should you change your cat litter?
The frequency of changing your cat's litter depends on a number of factors including:
- How many cats you have
- The type of litter you're using
- Your cat's toilet habits
In general it's a good idea to scoop the poop and any urine clumps daily and aim to have the entire tray changed and washed every 1 - 2 weeks.
Adopting a good litter box cleaning routine
Establishing a consistent cleaning routine is a great way to keep both you and your cat happy and stop your cat litter from smelling.
For most people this routine will involve daily 'spot cleaning' and periodic deep cleaning. Spot cleaning refers to removing a small amount of litter containing waste, and deep cleaning refers to replacing all of the litter and cleaning the tray as well.
Variables that affect cleaning frequency
Type of litter
It's easy to feel overwhelmed at the amount of different cat litters on the market! You can choose between everthing from clay based litters to corn and crystal types - as well as scented or unscented.
The main difference between litters which affects cleaning frequency is whether it is clumping or non-clumping.
- Mechanism: This litter forms solid clumps when it comes into contact with moisture from urine or faeces.
- Ease of cleaning: It allows for the easy removal of only the soiled portions, leaving the remaining clean litter behind.
- Maintenance: Because the clean litter stays fresh, there is no need to empty the entire tray every time it is used.
- Cost vs. Convenience: While clumping options tend to be priced slightly higher, they often make daily maintenance much simpler and more efficient.
- Mechanism: These litters are designed to absorb moisture without forming distinct clumps.
- Maintenance: Urine eventually seeps through to the bottom of the tray, requiring a full replacement of all litter more frequently to manage odours and hygiene.
- Variety: These are available in various materials, including scented or unscented versions, to suit different household preferences.
For more information, read our Complete Guide to Cat Litter.
Number of cats
The number of cats can have a big impact on how often you need to change your litter tray - more cats equals more waste!
The rule of thumb when it comes to litter trays in multi-cat households is one litter tray per cat + one extra.
Cats need privacy when using the tray so too few trays can lead to behavioural toileting issues as well as leading to a much faster build up of waste and odours. If your cats are sharing trays then it will need to be cleaned much more often - twice daily spot cleaning and then a full clean every few days.
Diet, hydration, and health
A cat’s "output" is a direct reflection of their internal health.
- High-moisture diets: Cats on wet food or those who drink plenty of water (which we love to see!) will produce larger volumes of urine, saturating non-clumping litter quickly.
- Medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes or kidney disease increase urination, necessitating more frequent scooping to keep the tray dry.
- Life stage: Kittens use the tray more frequently than adults, while seniors may require a pristine tray to encourage use if they have mobility issues.
Australian climate and humidity
- In humid regions (such as coastal NSW or Queensland), natural litters (corn, wheat, or tofu) can struggle to dry out.
- High humidity can lead to "sour" smells or dampness, requiring a more frequent full change compared to drier climates.
Individual cat fastidiousness
- Every cat has a different "tolerance" for a used tray. Some cats are happy with a daily scoop, while others may refuse to enter the box if it has been used even once, requiring immediate spot-cleaning.
Two types of litter box cleaning: the scoop and the change
As mentioned earlier, there are two types of cleaning when it comes to your cat's litter tray.
The 'scoop' or the 'spot clean' is something that should be performed one to two times daily. This involves using a kitty litter scoop to shovel out the soiled clumps of urine or poo. You can still use a scoop to remove poop in a non-clumping litter.
The change involves removal of all the old litter and replacing it with a fresh batch.
How to Scoop a Litter Box
Make sure you have your method of disposal handy before you start - this will depend on the type of litter you are using. Some litters are biodegradable and flushable, some can even be used in your garden/compost! Other types are non-biodegradable and will need to be disposed of as rubbish.
- It's best to wear gloves when cleaning your cat's tray
- Use your pet litter scoop to scoop up the soiled clump
- Gently sift the clean litter back into the tray through the scoop
- Dispose of the waste appropriately
- Rinse your scoop in soapy water and store
How to Change a Litter Box
The easiest way to change your litter box is to use a litter tray liner
- Wear gloves
- Remove the liner with the litter inside - most will have a tie to pull like a rubbish bag
- Dispose of the litter appropriately according to litter type
- Wash your tray with a mild dish detergent and hot water
- Avoid using any harsh chemicals such as those containing ammonia or bleach
- Dry the litter tray with paper towels before putting new litter in (otherwise it will clump)
- Apply a new litter tray liner if using
- Refill with fresh litter (around 5cm deep for most cats)
Special circumstances for more frequent cleaning
Diarrhoea
If your cat is having some toilet trouble eg diarrhoea its best to perform a scoop clean every time you notice your cat has been to the toilet and a full clean daily - particularly if you are in a multi cat household and want to avoid spreading any bugs.
Kidney disease or diabetes
Cats that have renal problems or diabetes will urinate large amounts - a clumping litter is ideal for these cases. If you are using a non-clumping litter the urine tends to pool at the bottom and therefore daily cleaning is often required.
When to consult your vet
If your cat does start avoiding the litter tray, your first port of call should be your vet. Inappropriate urination can have many causes - both medical and behavioural.
If your cat gets a clean bill of health and is still avoiding the tray - you might want to try cleaning your tray more regularly, or play around with different litter types - some cats will prefer one type over another.
For more information, read our articles about:
FAQs
Cats are such clever pets and one of their many benefits is that they can be easily trained to use a litter tray. Ensuring that their toilet is cleaned regularly, comfortable and appealing for your cat will keep your home odour free and keep your furry friend feeling happy.
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Tue 13 Jan 2026
Edited by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)Dr Samantha Wycherley BVSc
Contributing Author, BVSc
Dr Samantha works as a companion animal veterinarian in Melbourne. Graduated from Massey University in New Zealand in 2015. I have worked in NZ, across the UK and in Australia. Special interests include wildlife and senior pet medicine.
